About us

Welcome to our group

We pride ourselves on being a happy, friendly group based in the North West of England on the edge of the Lake District. Our weekly riding sessions take place in a local riding centre where we benefit from good indoor and outdoor facilities. We are also fortunate to have access to local outdoor facilities for carriage driving.

History

The group was founded in 1979 by the late Mrs Barbara Stothert and a group of like-minded friends to provide riding for children with disabilities. We are proud to continue with their mission.

Aims, goals and achievements

Whilst providing physical therapy and fun, our emphasis is on teaching riding and carriage driving for children and adults to the best of their ability.

Each individual rider or carriage driver has their own personal goals, and our dedicated team of RDA-trained volunteer helpers and instructors support them every step of the way. Many of our participants have gained RDA Proficiency Test certificates in horse care, riding and carriage driving; others reach their personal goal of riding independently, mastering the rising trot or perfecting their balance.

Funding

Although affiliated to the RDA National Organisation, RDA Westmorland Group Ltd is responsible for its own fundraising and management to keep the group operational and we are grateful for local support at our coffee mornings, social events and annual swimming marathon.

Policy

RDA westmorland Group Ltd operates a Child and Vulnerable Persons Policy and has a designated CVPO and Welfare Officer who also carries out DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks on all volunteers.